A chilling investigation spanning Toronto and Peel Region has led to the arrest of three men, revealing a disturbing plot linked to ISIS and targeting the city’s Jewish community. The case, dubbed Project Neopolitan, began with a series of unsettling events that quickly escalated into a national security concern.
The initial spark came from two brazen attempted kidnappings earlier this year. On May 31st, near Don Mills Road, three armed men tried to abduct a woman, only to be interrupted by a quick-thinking motorist. Less than a month later, on June 24th, two women were pursued by three individuals wielding a knife, rifle, and handgun in Streetsville – again, a bystander intervened.
Detectives swiftly connected these incidents, identifying the suspects and executing search warrants at their Toronto residences. The searches yielded a disturbing cache of weapons, including firearms, ammunition, and high-capacity magazines, hinting at a far more sinister plan than initially suspected.
The three accused – Waleed Khan, 26, Fahad Sadaat, 19, and Osman Azizov, 18 – were initially arrested in connection with the attempted kidnappings. However, the investigation soon uncovered evidence pointing to a deeper, hate-motivated extremism specifically targeting women and members of the Greater Toronto Area’s Jewish community.
Evidence gathered confirmed involvement in threats to national security, prompting the involvement of the RCMP’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET). The RCMP’s findings were described as “significant concern,” underscoring the gravity of the situation and the potential for widespread harm.
The men now face a staggering 79 charges, encompassing offenses ranging from auto theft and disguise with intent to conspiracy to commit kidnapping, sexual assault, and numerous firearms violations. Waleed Khan faces additional accusations of providing financial support to ISIS and actively participating in terrorist activities, even exploring opportunities to commit acts abroad.
The unfolding case arrives amidst heightened global anxieties, less than a week after a Hanukkah celebration in Australia was targeted by an ISIS-affiliated attack. This incident has ignited alarm bells in Canada, with experts and officials warning of the potential for similar violence here.
Concerns are mounting that a failure to address rising antisemitism and perceived tolerance of extremist rhetoric could embolden those seeking to inflict harm. Warnings have been issued that inaction could tragically result in a terror attack on Canadian soil, echoing the devastating events witnessed in Australia.
Authorities emphasize their unwavering commitment to holding accountable those who threaten the safety and security of Canadian communities. While details remain subject to a publication ban, the message is clear: vigilance and proactive measures are paramount in safeguarding against the growing threat of extremism.
